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Z Orthop Unfall 2020; 158(06): 611-617
DOI: 10.1055/a-1014-3667
Original Article/Originalarbeit

Physical Performance and Quality of Life after Ankle Fusion

Article in several languages: English | deutsch
Norbert Harrasser
1   Foot and Ankle Surgery, Schön Klinik München Harlaching, Munich
2   Klinik und Poliklinik für Orthopädie/Sportorthopädie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich
,
Christine Gebhardt
3   Klinik für Orthopädie und Unfallchirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg
,
Norbert P. Südkamp
3   Klinik für Orthopädie und Unfallchirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg
,
Hagen Schmal
3   Klinik für Orthopädie und Unfallchirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg
4   Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Dänemark
,
Markus Walther
1   Foot and Ankle Surgery, Schön Klinik München Harlaching, Munich
,
Alexander Thomas Mehlhorn
1   Foot and Ankle Surgery, Schön Klinik München Harlaching, Munich
3   Klinik für Orthopädie und Unfallchirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg
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Abstract

Introduction Ankle fusion is still considered as an established therapy for end-stage ankle osteoarthritis. To determine exact description of postoperative functioning, it is necessary to consult a variety of functional scores and quality of life questionnaires.

Methods/Patients 34 patients with 34 ankle fusions were investigated on average 5.9 years postoperatively by functional tests and health-related quality of life questionnaires (AOFAS hindfoot score [AOFAS: American Orthopaedic Foot/Ankle Society], Foot Function Index [FFI], Lower Extremity Functional Scale [LEFS], Lower Extremity Activity Scale [LEAS], Visual Analogue Scale Foot/Ankle Surgery [VAS FA], Short Form 36 [SF-36], EuroQol 5D [EQ-5D]).

Results After ankle fusion: the majority of cases gain pain reduction, but residual symptoms may persist; the maximum walking distance (subjectively more than objectively) will be extended; rarely walking without any aids can be achieved; in most cases, the gait pattern is only slightly changed; the re-entry into working life is often possible; climbing stairs without any restrictions is not always possible; the psychological situation will be equalized with that of healthy people.

Conclusion The results of the study confirm the success rates of ankle fusions in the majority of cases. Well defined limitations and residual symptoms can be named on the basis of the available data.

Key words

osteoarthritis - foot - functional follow-up


Publication History

Article published online:
09 December 2019

© 2019. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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